Tictock

Ok where to start. Having supported 2 parents with dementia. We were able to see with hindsight how long before diagnosis they had both been struggling. Now I watch my husband become a cross between Victor Meldrew and Alf Garnet. There were always hints but they seem to have taken him over. He has no filter and will often be inappropriate with others. He refuses any advice and becomes angry if criticised. However he still drives a car better than I do. We are pretty similar in the memory stakes. Thats pretty bad, word blind, forgetting where we have put anything. What day is it? On yes then his hearing is appalling. I have to repeat everything at least twice then explain what I am talking about. My tolerance is low and temper high. I know much of it is normal but ……. I guess I should say he is 70 and Im 68. We have 50 fabulous years behind us and are still having a great time much of the time. Neither of us wants diagnosis. He is in total denial and I am living on hope and a prayer. Does anyone relate to any of this?

Hi there. I do feel for you. Im sorry you are so unhappy.. I Can relate to some of this and having watched 2 parents with Dementia I worry that this could be the early signs. It could also just be the Normal aging process??? Have just joined this site myself to explore how other couples are dealing with the aging process. Referring to Lionels previous response. He has helped me reinforce my knowledge that we have to treasure every moment of our loved ones even as age takes its toll. However it is not easy. Especially as I age too and worry about my own level of function. Ive seen a forum for concerns re aging parents. I need one for concerns re aging partners and self. How do we cope? Early stages of dementia or not? Im not looking for diagnosis, time will give us that. Just looking for others with the same struggle to compare notes and sound off with. Will keep looking; if iI dont find one I may try to start one in the future. Any pointers appreciated.

Thanks for your reply Lionel. I feel bad listening to your situation. We are struggling with the early stages and my husband is in full denial. I know I should make the most of what we have whilst it lasts. But I find myself so irritable having to repeat myself so often and then explain myself. It makes superficial chat pointless. I am becoming a bad tempered nag rather than a cheerful support. How do you do it?

Hi there Really feel for you. My situation is different but similar. I am watching my husband of over 40 years age.. His social skills are reducing. Conversation is minimal. Hearing is a nightmare. I have to repeat everything twice then explain myself. Its not worth the effort. I also feel Im losing the Man Ive loved all my adult life. Its me hitting the wine not him. Often whilst he sleeps